d’Arenberg’s Dead Arm Shiraz has a proud history and is a favourite amongst many a wine enthusiast. I’ve tasted some excellent vintages and witnessed its capacity to age. But I’m not taken with this release. It lacks life, dynamics and a sense of interest.
Baked plums, curranty black fruits and jammy characters. Flat and a touch arid. The acidity juts out, attempting to resuscitate the warm vintage fruit but ultimately failing. Vanilla, earth and raspberry rope licorice. Charcoal and salted chocolate with some sweet vanilla. Plenty of flavour (and flavours) yet strangely and singularly lacking any ability to pull you in deeper. Lots of grainy, peasant tannin. Some will still like it. I’m simply not one of them. 88 Good
Region: McLaren Vale
Alcohol: 14.5%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $70
Tasted: April 2013